AdBlue Fault in Palma: why it appears, what happens if you ignore it, and how much it costs

AdBlue: What it is and why your car can't live without it

AdBlue is a urea solution that the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system injects into the exhaust gases to convert nitrogen oxides (NOx) into nitrogen and water vapour. Without AdBlue, your Euro 6 diesel car pollutes above the legal limit.

European regulations require that if the AdBlue level is critical or the system fails, the car won't start. It's not an option: it's a legal factory limitation.

AdBlue Lights: What Each One Means

• Amber light + "X km remaining": The AdBlue tank is low. Please add AdBlue at a petrol station. This is not a fault.
• Red light + urgent warning: critical level. On the next start, the car might not turn on again.
• General fault light + AdBlue code: System fault (NOx sensor, AdBlue injector, SCR module, heater). Diagnosis required.
• Car won't start + AdBlue message: The system has immobilised the vehicle. It needs diagnosis and repair before you can move the car.

Most common AdBlue faults

• Defective NOx sensor: the most frequent - 200-350 ?
• Clogged AdBlue injector: due to urea crystallization - 150-280 ?
• SCR/Dosing Module: 300-600 ?
• AdBlue tank heater: in winter (rare in Mallorca) - 180-280 €
• Contaminated AdBlue: if you refueled with the wrong product - circuit cleaning

What NOT to do

On the internet, there's 'AdBlue emulation' which electronically deactivates the system. In Spain, it is illegal, invalidates insurance, can result in a fine of up to 2,000 ? at the ITV, and deteriorates the SCR catalyst in the long term. We don't do it, we don't recommend it.

Cost and time at Zamule Cars

AdBlue Diagnosis from 69 € with official manufacturer scanner. Repair quote on the same day. Most repairs resolved within 24-48 hours. 12-month warranty.

? View full service: AdBlue Repair Palma